Fri Dec 06 05:05:16 UTC 2024: ## Messi and Inter Miami to Kick Off Expanded FIFA Club World Cup in Miami

**Miami, FL –** The draw for the revamped 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States next summer, has been completed in Miami. The tournament, which will run from June 15th to July 13th, 2025, features a group stage followed by a single-elimination knockout phase.

The event, which saw the unveiling of a new trophy designed by FIFA and Tiffany & Co., was attended by prominent figures including President-elect Donald Trump, who delivered a pre-recorded video message praising the growth of soccer and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

High-profile matchups highlight the tournament’s group stage: Defending Champions Manchester City will face Juventus, Wydad AC, and Al Ain in Group G. Chelsea will compete against Flamengo, Club Leon, and Esperance Sportive de Tunis in Group D. The tournament will open with a highly anticipated clash between Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium.

Other notable groups include Group B featuring Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid, and Botafogo; and Group H featuring Real Madrid and Al Hilal. The tournament will utilize 12 stadiums across the United States. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout rounds.

The expanded format, however, is facing legal challenges in Europe from FIFPRO, the players’ union. Despite these challenges, FIFA is pushing ahead with its ambitious plan to transform the Club World Cup into a major international spectacle.

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